A pedalboard is a guitarist's painting pallet for coloring the sound spectrum.  Tonal purists prefer a minimal setup, while others plug into a mission control center of pedals to amplify a specific sound.  This new year called for adding another pedal to my board.  I was content with my overdrives, delays, reverbs and octave pedals but wanted something to spice things up.  I had been eyeing the Boss PS-5 Super Shifter for a few months and decided after research and testing that it was the one.  Its sounds, affordability, and compact size sold me.  Here's a more detailed look into its features:

T.Arm: Essentially, this mode simulates the effect of a guitar's tremolo arm.  Adjust the pitch knob to select its shift (up or down), the speed knob to the desired speed of the shift, and balance knob to adjust the wet/dry mix.   Holding down the pedal's footswitch activates the T.Arm effect.  I prefer this feature over Digitech's Whammy 4 (I know, it's nothing close to the original) where you have to activate the pedal first and then use its expression pedal to achieve the effect.

Harmonist: In this mode, you can harmonize single notes according to the key you're in.  If you're unfamiliar with music theory, you may have difficulty using this feature.  The instructional manual helps a little, but this mode may encourage you to brush up on some theory.  Once you select the key and pitch setting, you're on your way to harmonizing bliss.  Instant Smashing Pumpkins in a box... sort of.  Using an Ebow with this mode sounds amazing!  Important note: make sure the guitar is in tune or else the harmony won't sound right.

Detune: It is a subtle effect, but in this mode, you get a warm, chorus like effect without sounding too watery.  Adjust the speed, add some delay, a little reverb and you're set.

Pitch Shifter: I haven't quite learned the art of dialing in this effect yet.  You have the ability to shift the pitch up or down two octaves maximum.  Make sure the guitar is in tune or it muddies the effect.  In my opinion, the pitch shifting effect sounds glitchy and digital (I know... it's a digital pedal).  While not my favorite feature, I'm sure if used correctly, one can achieve some cool sounds.

Flutter: In my opinion, this is the pedal's downfall. It's supposed to produce a fluttering, vibrato effect, but sounds more like a Looney Tunes character getting hit with a mallet.  I haven't found any tasteful use for it. 

Overall, I think the Boss PS-5 Super Shifter is worth the money.  Its sounds, compact size, and wet/dry mix feature make it a steal compared to Digitech's large, expensive Whammy pedal.  It takes a little music theory knowledge, but nothing too difficult to grasp.  In regards to signal path, I suggest placing the Super Shifter before overdrive or distortion pedals.  Adding delay and reverb to the mix makes for some tasty, colorful tones.

You can find it online at bossus.com

By Author: Michael King

Michael King returns to Richmond, Virginia after working four years in the music and television industry. He’s a VCU graduate thrilled to finally use his English degree for Magazine33! On road trips, he enjoys listening to indie rock, folk, and NPR. He digs the sound of a Fender Telecaster and is nerdy about guitar pedals. An ASCAP member, his music has been placed on MTV and Destineer video games.

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